India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been working on its first-ever defence satellite launch vehicle, dubbed Veda or Vehicle for Defence Application, which is nearing completion. The Veda vehicle, which is made using the K-4 SLBM first and second stages, will be used to launch defence satellites into a lower orbit. The project is aimed at replenishing India's satellites in the event of hostile actions, and also offers the capability to launch killer nano-satellites into precise orbits to take out hostile satellites in a tit-for-tat action.
The development trials for the system are expected to commence soon, and the exact purpose of Project Veda is still uncertain. However, it is believed that the creation of a mobile satellite launch vehicle will allow India to deploy an ELINT satellite constellation in a conflict zone swiftly for mission-specific purposes. Additionally, it may enable the deployment of a V-band-based Inter-satellite Link communication module for Small Satellites to maintain communication in the conflict zone.
The Veda vehicle’s development highlights India's growing ambitions in the space sector, as the country seeks to establish itself as a major player in the global space industry. The DRDO has been making steady progress in developing indigenous defence technology in various areas, including missile systems, fighter jets, and unmanned vehicles. The successful development of the Veda vehicle will give India another feather in its cap in terms of defence technology, and will enable it to enhance its national security by strengthening its space capabilities.
India has been increasingly focused on developing its space capabilities in recent years. In March 2019, India conducted an anti-satellite missile test, which saw the destruction of one of its own satellites in low-Earth orbit. The test drew international criticism, but India defended it as necessary for national security. In addition to developing its space capabilities, India has also been working to increase its domestic production of defence equipment, with the aim of reducing its reliance on foreign suppliers.
Overall, the Veda project is a significant step forward for India's space programme, and its successful completion will cement the country's position as a major player in the global space industry. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how India leverages its enhanced space capabilities to further its national security goals.
